Detroit Tigers: Steven Moya Makes Anthony Gose Expendable

In Conclusion

So where does this leave Anthony Gose?

Probably on the outside looking in. Detroit could conceivably part with Mike Aviles when Maybin returns, but Gose seems more likely to go. Of the two utility players, Aviles can provide defensive cover at more positions. Additionally, the 25-year-old has minor league options left, while Aviles doesn’t. What’s more, it seems unlikely that Detroit would move on this quickly from Aviles.

Gose does bring value on the base paths, but Romine could replace him in that regard.

The Detroit Tigers have been hurt by a lack of a bench in recent seasons.

One reason for this is that the team has spent so heavily on a stellar offensive lineups and pitching staffs (see Miguel Cabrera, Victor Martinez, Justin Upton, Jordan Zimmermann and Justin Verlander) that it can’t afford to invest in the bench.

This has left the team with a number of younger and cheaper—not to mention unproven—options off the bench. The likes of Hernan Perez, Tyler Collins and Bryan Holaday haven’t really gotten it done, Moya can be different and provide an impact. With his power, he’s the type of pinch-hitter/bench contributor that can potentially win the Tigers a few games before all is said and done this season.